The administrative division of Iraq is structured around several governorates, which are the primary administrative units in the country. These governorates, also known as provinces, play a crucial role in local governance, administration, and coordination of services. As of the most recent data, Iraq is divided into 19 governorates, each with its unique geographical, cultural, and economic characteristics. The governorates vary in size and population, and they are integral to the functioning of the central government, with each having its own local governing body.
1. Baghdad Governorate
Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, is both a governorate and the nation’s political, cultural, and economic center. It is one of the most populous governorates and serves as the hub of government activity. The city of Baghdad, which is also the largest city in Iraq, is known for its historical significance, vibrant culture, and as a major center of education and commerce. The governorate has been central to Iraq’s modern history, witnessing significant events and transformations over the decades.
2. Basra Governorate
Located in the southern part of Iraq, Basra is a vital governorate due to its strategic location on the Persian Gulf. The city of Basra is Iraq’s main port and a significant hub for the oil industry. This governorate plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, particularly through its contributions to oil exports. Its location also makes it a cultural melting pot, with diverse influences from the Gulf region.
3. Nineveh Governorate
Nineveh is situated in the northern part of Iraq and is renowned for its rich historical and archaeological heritage. The city of Mosul, which is the governorate’s capital, was historically known for its prominence in ancient Mesopotamia. Nineveh has faced various challenges in recent years, including conflicts and reconstruction efforts, but it remains a region of great historical significance, with sites such as the ancient city of Nineveh itself and other notable archaeological treasures.
4. Erbil Governorate
Erbil, also known as Arbil, is located in the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. It serves as the capital of the Kurdistan Region and is an important center for Kurdish culture and politics. The governorate is characterized by its historical sites, including the ancient citadel of Erbil, which is one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world. Erbil’s economy is bolstered by its role as a commercial hub and its proximity to significant oil resources.
5. Sulaymaniyah Governorate
Sulaymaniyah, another key governorate in the Kurdistan Region, is known for its scenic landscapes and cultural heritage. The city of Sulaymaniyah, which is the governorate’s capital, is a center for Kurdish culture and education. It has a reputation for being relatively progressive compared to other parts of Iraq, with a focus on modernization and development. The governorate’s economy is diverse, with agriculture and trade playing significant roles.
6. Dhi Qar Governorate
Located in the southern part of Iraq, Dhi Qar is known for its historical significance, particularly the ancient Sumerian city of Ur, which is a major archaeological site. The city of Nasiriyah is the governorate’s capital and serves as a focal point for local administration and development. Dhi Qar has a strong agricultural sector, benefiting from the fertile land in the region.
7. Karbala Governorate
Karbala is renowned for its religious significance, particularly for Shia Muslims, as it is the site of the holy shrine of Imam Hussein. The city of Karbala is a major pilgrimage destination and plays a vital role in the religious and cultural life of Iraq. The governorate is also known for its historical significance and has a prominent role in the country’s spiritual and cultural identity.
8. Najaf Governorate
Najaf, like Karbala, is a significant center for Shia Islam, with the city of Najaf serving as a major religious and scholarly hub. The shrine of Imam Ali, a key site for Shia Muslims, is located in Najaf. The governorate is central to religious education and leadership in Iraq, and its economy benefits from religious tourism and related activities.
9. Anbar Governorate
Anbar is the largest governorate in Iraq by area, located in the western part of the country. The city of Ramadi is its capital. Anbar has been a strategically important region due to its location and has experienced various challenges, including security issues. The governorate is known for its desert landscapes and has significant potential for agricultural and natural resource development.
10. Diyala Governorate
Situated in the northeastern part of Iraq, Diyala has a diverse population and a mix of agricultural and industrial activities. The city of Baqubah is the governorate’s capital. Diyala’s location near the Iranian border influences its cultural and economic interactions, and it has faced various challenges related to security and development.
11. Kirkuk Governorate
Kirkuk is a governorate known for its rich ethnic diversity, including Kurds, Arabs, and Turkmen. The city of Kirkuk, which is the governorate’s capital, is an important center for the oil industry and has been a focal point of political and ethnic tensions. Despite these challenges, Kirkuk is a region with significant natural resources and historical importance.
12. Muthanna Governorate
Located in southern Iraq, Muthanna is characterized by its predominantly desert landscape. The city of Samawah serves as the governorate’s capital. Muthanna’s economy is largely based on agriculture and trade, with a focus on developing its infrastructure and resources to enhance economic opportunities.
13. Qadisiyyah Governorate
Qadisiyyah is situated in central Iraq, with the city of Diwaniyah as its capital. The governorate has a mix of agricultural and industrial activities, with a focus on developing its economic infrastructure. Qadisiyyah has a rich history and cultural heritage, contributing to its local identity.
14. Salah al-Din Governorate
Salah al-Din, located in northern Iraq, has a diverse landscape that includes both agricultural land and mountainous regions. The city of Tikrit is the governorate’s capital. Salah al-Din has historical significance and has faced various challenges related to security and development, but it remains an important region with potential for growth.
15. Wasit Governorate
Wasit is situated in southeastern Iraq, with the city of Kut as its capital. The governorate is known for its agricultural activities, benefiting from its fertile land and river systems. Wasit is also working on enhancing its infrastructure and economic development to better serve its population.
16. Babil Governorate
Babil is located in central Iraq, with the city of Hillah as its capital. The governorate is known for its historical and archaeological sites, including remnants of ancient Babylon. Babil has a mix of agricultural and industrial activities and is focusing on preserving its historical heritage while developing its economy.
17. Al-Qadisiyyah Governorate
Al-Qadisiyyah, also located in central Iraq, has a similar administrative role to other governorates, with the city of Diwaniyah serving as its capital. The region is engaged in various agricultural and industrial activities and is working towards improving its economic and social infrastructure.
18. Maysan Governorate
Maysan is located in the southeastern part of Iraq, with the city of Amarah as its capital. The governorate is known for its agricultural activities and has a focus on developing its natural resources and infrastructure to support economic growth.
19. Duhok Governorate
Duhok, part of the Kurdistan Region, is located in northern Iraq. The city of Duhok serves as the governorate’s capital and is known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance. The governorate has a diverse economy with a focus on tourism, agriculture, and trade.
Each of these governorates plays a crucial role in Iraq’s administrative structure, contributing to the country’s governance, economic development, and cultural preservation. The diversity among the governorates reflects the rich tapestry of Iraq’s history, culture, and geography, making each region unique in its contributions to the nation’s overall identity.